The Philippines Congress has backed a Supreme Court ruling
and voted against impeaching the country's top judge.

Lawmakers in the House of Representatives voted by 115 to 77
not to proceed against Chief Justice Hilario Davide.

The opposition had been seeking an impeachment trial in the
Senate over allegations he misused public funds.

The vote was a victory for President Gloria Arroyo. But with
elections due next May, further rows are likely.

"This is a historic win for the Filipino people,"
said President Arroyo.

The moves against Chief Justice Davide created serious
divisions in the country

Former leaders became embroiled in the controversy, with
supporters of ousted President Joseph Estrada demanding impeachment, while
former president Corazon Aquino joined the Catholic Church in rallies against
it.

The currency and the stock market suffered as a result of the
process, as did proposed reforms to try and stop a decline in foreign
investment.

The crisis began last month when opposition members began
impeachment proceedings against Chief Justice Davide for alleged mismanagement
of a judicial fund.

The judge denied the allegations and said the congress
members were overstepping their authority.